MANILA, Philippines — Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has expressed his preference for a fair and balanced process in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, following the House prosecution panel’s decision to drop all Articles of Impeachment except for Article II.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, October 14, Go—who is serving as a senator-judge in the impeachment court—emphasized his commitment to upholding truth, justice, and accountability.
”Gusto namin makakita ng patas o pantay na laban. Though still ongoing pa po yung paglilitis, kahit sino naman gusto mo makakita ng pantay at patas na laban,” Go stated.
”Kahit sino naman gusto mo makakita ng pantay at patas na laban. At sa bawat laban, mas masarap ang pakiramdam pag pinaghirapan at pinagpawisan mo yung laban. Tulad ng sports,” he added, comparing the judicial process to an athletic competition.
While declining to comment directly on the defense team’s claims that the proceedings were “unfair,” Go acknowledged that modifying or dropping charges falls under the prosecution’s prerogative.
The issue arose as Vice President Duterte’s spokesperson, Atty. Paolo Panelo, criticized the Senate majority for remaining silent and alleged that the ongoing hearings have squandered at least ₱1 billion in government funds.
Despite the friction, Go reiterated the importance of giving both sides an equal opportunity to present their case.
”So, ibig sabihin kung nakasuntok na yung kabila, bigyan mo naman ng pagkakataon na lumaban naman yung kabila ng patas,” he explained.
”Mas masarap po ang pakiramdam pag pinaghirapan nyo po ang inyong pakikipaglaban,” he concluded.